SCRIPTURE: Genesis 48:1-22
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
In that culture, the firstborn child had all the best privileges, and was the primary heir. Jacob was blessed “out of order”, the second born son receiving the greater blessing (Esau was the first-born, Genesis 27:1-41). Perhaps he always had a sore spot for the firstborn (he wants to marry Rachel, the second daughter, but is forced to marry the firstborn Leah, Genesis 29:21-27; he does not have positive feelings towards his own firstborn, Genesis 49:3-4). Unknown to Jacob, God uses his preference for the second born to highlight How own disregard for human priority and levels and distinction (see Malachi 1:2-5, Romans 9:10-16).
Our world has its own standards of preference, but God always works against them. He favours the weak, the underdog, the humble (1 Corinthians 1:26-31). And even though Jesus is God’s firstborn, the legitimate heir of the Universe, He does not ‘lord it over’ the others but treats His adopted siblings as coheirs (Colossians 1:15, Romans 8:17).
PRAYER:
Lord, I am lesser than You, yet You have elevated me to be your brother, and co-heir with You. Help me to appreciate that this is not because I deserve it, but because You have graciously chosen to honour me. Amen.
God made a promise to Jacob and his seed. When Jacob was dying, he adopted two of Joseph’s sons as part of his family. They became part of the promise. They became adopted sons of God. I too am adopted into the family of God. As such I have become an heir of the salvation to all who are children of the kingdom, children of God, members of God’s family.
In the blessing, God’s hand is again seen. He blesses those whom He chooses. The younger received the double portion. This was against the flow of the day. Yet God is at work and selects those He desires. His way and not man’s ways. Lord. open my eyes to see You at work in this world every day your wonders to perform.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs
And works His sovereign will.